Village show-does craftwork have to be new?

[Molehillmountain]

I did a cushion ages ago (canvas with tent stitch) and I fancy entering the village show. It doesn't say in the rules that the items have to be new, but this cushion clearly isn't (although in good condition). Could I enter it do you think?

In our shows, things are supposed to be not exhibited before and made since the last show. The last one seems to be interpreted very loosely - sometimes people exhibit (say) sketches dated five years ago.

As long as you don't put this cushion in every show for the next 3 years, I'm sure it'll be fine.

I think I'll put it in then. Only it has a few bobbles! Might have to shave it...

would it pass if you said it was created out of recycled material??? that might explain away the not so new look? I know that sounds a bit cheeky but it sounds as if you don't enter stuff all the time, so i don't see where there'd be any harm in it?

I think it would suffer in the judging if it is clearly used. They seem to be quite harsh in their judgement :)

Yes, that's sometimes true. I was thinking more of things (like artwork) which look pristine but are a few years old.

Can the cushion be cleaned/debobbled?

Think I'll put it in-given that I haven't time to make another. See what the comments are and learn for next year. Had a little mark on it which I removed with oxy stuff. Thanks for advice. I know the judges on these things take it appropriately seriously!

Well, it's in and probably judged by now. Feel more nervous than I imagined-it's a village show but I've never had comments from anyone outside the family before! Looked nice on display and I felt proud whatever the judges think . Thanks for the comments.

First prize! Although I was the only entry in that category!

Well done :) a first is a first regardless...

Mind you, would have been embarrassing not to have got first in those circumstances!

That thought definitely crossed my mind, soup